Nitric oxide (NO) is a small molecule that serves various functions in the body, including its involvement in healing, stress reduction, and potentially in meditation-related spiritual processes. Let’s delve into the details of nitric oxide and its pathway in the context of healing and meditation.
Anandamide, nitric oxide, and oxytocin are the three key neurotransmitters associated with the 108 chakras in the human body and contribute to deep meditation, relaxation, and bliss. In this article, we will focus on nitric oxide pathway for deep meditation. Among the 114 chakras in human body, six are basic traditional chakras, and the remaining 108 chakras are associated with the higher energy bodies.
Nitric Oxide for Healing
Nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is closely linked to mood. Scientific studies suggest that anandamide contributes to feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and happiness [1]. Nitric oxide plays a “dual role” in many neurological disorders of the human body [2].
Nitric oxide (NO) can affect a person’s mental health in a number of different ways. In fact, numerous studies have demonstrated that optimal NO production can assist an individual in feeling and thinking better, sleeping better, experiencing less worry, and less signs and symptoms of depression.
Nitric Oxide Overview:
The nitric oxide (NO) pathway consists of complex molecular circuits that regulate the production and effects of nitric oxide in various physiological processes. NO is a gaseous signaling molecule with a short half-life that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels), neurotransmission, immune response, and healing.
Endogenous production of nitric oxide means that the chemical reaction that creates it occurs naturally within the human body. As we get older, our ability to produce it becomes less effective. Since the discovery of nitric oxide in 1998 as a signaling molecule in the circulatory system by Dr. Louis Ignarro, winner of the 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, and two other scientists, there has been a significant amount of study conducted on nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide is normally secreted by the cells that line the inner wall of blood arteries. This gas then makes its way to the muscle cells that surround blood vessels, where it stimulates those vessels to expand and make it easier for blood to flow through. Inadequate generation of nitric oxide may play a role in the narrowing of blood arteries, increase of blood pressure.
Below, we’ll explore the key components and circuits within the NO pathway:
Nitric Oxide Synthesis:
- Nitric oxide is synthesized by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes, primarily in three isoforms: neuronal NOS (nNOS or NOS1), inducible NOS (iNOS or NOS2), and endothelial NOS (eNOS or NOS3).
- NOS enzymes convert the amino acid L-arginine into L-citrulline while producing NO as a byproduct.
- Neuronal NOS is found in neurons and is involved in neurotransmission. Endothelial NOS is located in the endothelial cells lining blood vessels and regulates blood flow and vascular tone. Inducible NOS is produced during inflammation and immune responses.
NO Signaling in Vasodilation:
- Endothelial NOS (eNOS) in endothelial cells plays a crucial role in vasodilation.
- When endothelial cells are stimulated by factors like acetylcholine, shear stress, or bradykinin, eNOS produces NO.
- NO diffuses into nearby smooth muscle cells in blood vessel walls.
- In smooth muscle cells, NO activates an enzyme called soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC).
- sGC converts guanosine triphosphate (GTP) into cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), leading to relaxation and vasodilation of the blood vessel.
cGMP Signaling:
- cGMP is a key player in the NO pathway, mediating many of its effects.
- cGMP activates protein kinase G (PKG), which phosphorylates target proteins, causing smooth muscle relaxation.
- This relaxation leads to the widening of blood vessels, increased blood flow, and decreased blood pressure.
Role in Neurotransmission:
- In neurons, nitric oxide produced by neuronal NOS (nNOS) acts as a neurotransmitter.
- nNOS-derived NO plays a role in neuronal communication and synaptic plasticity.
- NO can affect the release of neurotransmitters like glutamate and influence neuronal excitability.
Immune Responses:
- Inducible NOS (iNOS) is produced by immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, in response to inflammation and immune challenges.
- iNOS-generated NO helps combat pathogens by acting as an antimicrobial agent.
- It also plays a role in immune cell signaling and regulation.
Feedback Regulation:
- The NO pathway is tightly regulated to prevent excessive NO production, which can have detrimental effects.
- Regulatory mechanisms include feedback loops that control the activity of NOS enzymes, such as calcium/calmodulin-dependent regulation and phosphorylation.
Nitric Oxide Pathway in Disease:
- Dysregulation of the NO pathway is implicated in various diseases, including cardiovascular conditions, neurological disorders, and inflammatory diseases.
- Abnormalities in NO production or signaling can lead to conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Relaxation Response:
- Nitric oxide’s vasodilatory effects can promote relaxation and reduce blood pressure.
- In meditation, deep relaxation is a key goal, and NO may play a role in achieving this state by modulating blood vessel tone.
Summary
In summary, nitric oxide is a versatile molecule that plays a critical role in healing by regulating blood flow, immune responses, and tissue repair. The nitric oxide pathway comprises a network of circuits involving NO synthesis, signaling, and regulation. It is also important to note that while both anandamide and the nitric oxide pathway have potential connections to mood and happiness.
It plays a critical role in regulating blood vessel tone, neurotransmission, immune responses, and various physiological processes. Understanding these circuits and their roles is essential for comprehending the diverse functions of nitric oxide in health and disease.